I signed up for a group critique session at a writer’s conference later this year. It’ll be interesting to see what people have to say about my writing. I’m using the second novel which is a bit of a special snowflake vs. all my other writing.

(This way, if they hate it I can just say it was that novel and not all my writing. Of course, if they love it, I’ll assume that would apply to any of my writing. Now you see why I have an ego the size of a house–I dismiss criticism and over-apply praise.)

I’m also going to sit in on another critique session. Which means I have about sixteen writing samples I need to read through between now and the conference.

I’m kind of dreading it.

I don’t want to slam anyone or make them feel bad about their writing. And I fully believe in the general rule that if it works it works. But a quick glance showed me at least one prologue (which I’ve seen numerous people say is a BAD idea), a story that starts with the character waking up and making breakfast (another supposed no-no), and one was so overwritten I’m scared to read the full sample.

Of course, that person I think overwrote their story will think I didn’t give near enough detail. Because we each have our own styles and preferences as so clearly evidenced by the wide variety of books and authors out there.

Well. It is what it is. But I suspect I won’t be making any new friends in these sessions. I just hope they don’t rake me across the coals. That’d suck.